In a series of forceful posts on X, Trump’s Transportation Secretary Sean Duffey lashed out at former Transportation Director Pete Buttigieg, accusing him of failing to address critical deficiencies in America’s air traffic control system
Buttigieg demanded answers on social media about recent personnel changes at the FAA: “The flying public needs answers. How many FAA personnel were just fired? What positions? And why?”
According to Duffey, Buttigieg “failed for four years” to remedy the nation’s air traffic controller shortage and to modernize an air traffic control system that, he said, dates back to World War II.
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“In less than four weeks, we have already begun the process and are engaging the smartest minds in the entire world,” Duffey asserted in his remarks.
Duffey noted that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) employs roughly 45,000 workers and emphasized that recent staffing changes did not affect air traffic controllers or other critical safety personnel.
“Less than 400 were let go, and they were all probationary, meaning they had been hired less than a year ago. Zero air traffic controllers and critical safety personnel were let go,” he said.
Duffey further criticized Buttigieg’s management of the agency, alleging that the former director repurposed the FAA into a “slush fund for the green new scam and environmental justice nonsense.” He highlighted that under Buttigieg’s tenure, over 90% of the agency’s workforce was reportedly working from home, including Buttigieg himself, resulting in an almost empty building.
“When we finally get a full accounting of his mismanagement, I look forward to hearing from him,” Duffey added.
Buttigieg’s tenure as Transportation Secretary is lined with key issues raised by opponents, highlighting a record that many say reflects a failure to prioritize America’s transportation infrastructure and safety.
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East Palestine Train Crash Response:
In early 2023, a train carrying dangerous cargo crashed in East Palestine, Ohio, triggering a public health emergency and widespread panic over toxic chemical releases. Critics argue that Buttigieg, who oversaw rail safety regulations, failed to act proactively.
- Delayed Reaction: He reportedly waited 10 days to publicly mention the accident and three weeks to visit ground zero, actions that many say were insufficient given the emergency.
Union Negotiation Failures:
Amid tense rail worker union negotiations that nearly led to an imminent strike—with Amtrak forced to cancel tickets—Buttigieg did not intervene.
- Absent Leadership: Instead of addressing the brewing crisis, he was criticized for being absent from Washington, opting for a vacation in Portugal while other officials had to step in to mitigate the strike threat.
Spirit Airlines Merger Controversy:
Buttigieg was notably vocal against a proposed merger between Spirit Airlines and JetBlue Airways—breaking the usual departmental silence on such matters.
- Market Impact: His criticism contributed to the merger’s blockage, which forced Spirit Airlines into an unfavorable position, potentially reducing consumer choices and putting the airline’s workers at risk of unemployment.
FAA Oversight Shortcomings:
Effective management of the Federal Aviation Administration is critical for air travel safety and efficiency. However, during Buttigieg’s tenure:
- Staffing Issues: 77% of critical air traffic control facilities were reportedly understaffed by the second year in office.
- System Failure: In January 2023, an antiquated FAA system failure resulted in more than 7,500 flight delays and several near misses, raising serious questions about the department’s preparedness and oversight.
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